Police Foundations
Your first step in preparing for a career in law enforcement.
- Focus on community service and partnerships
- Fitness program aligned with law enforcement skill and testing standards
- Portfolio development designed to place graduates in a competitive position for hire
Program Availability and Schedule
Availability
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Closed
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Start Term
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International
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Competitive?
Fall 2024
No
Schedule
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Program Summary
Credential
Program Delivery
Program Code
Area of Interest
School
Campus
Other Campuses
Other Delivery Options
The two-year Police Foundations Ontario College Diploma program, delivered in a compressed format over 42 weeks, provides you with a foundational knowledge of the field of policing. Curriculum includes both theory and applied lessons in law enforcement - helping you prepare for the workforce. This program offers instruction in:
police powers and procedures community law enforcement investigation processes diversity ethics communication...(read more)
Overview
Your first step in preparing for a career in law enforcement.
The two-year Police Foundations Ontario College Diploma program, delivered in a compressed format over 42 weeks, provides you with a foundational knowledge of the field of policing. Curriculum includes both theory and applied lessons in law enforcement - helping you prepare for the workforce. This program offers instruction in:
- police powers and procedures
- community law enforcement
- investigation processes
- diversity
- ethics
- communication
While there is a strong theoretical aspect to this program, there are many opportunities for hands-on learning in both labs and scenario rooms. There are various activities outside the classroom, such as community volunteering opportunities, and program-related initiatives.
The program prepares you to apply for and be tested for employment in law enforcement. As fitness is an important part of a career in law enforcement, you use an on-site fitness facility to prepare for physical fitness tests required by law enforcement agencies. In addition to your work in our fitness facility, you establish and maintain your own exercise schedule.
There are a number of potential job opportunities for graduates of this program in areas such as:
- municipal, provincial or federal police services
- military police service
- by-law services
- Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)
- corrections
- security agencies
SUCCESS FACTORS
This program is well-suited for students who:
- Possess good communication (written, verbal, technological) and interpersonal abilities.
- Are committed to serving the broad and diverse needs of their community.
- Have analytical and observational skills.
- Enjoy working as a team member.
- Lead a healthy and active lifestyle.
Courses
Programs at Algonquin College are delivered using a variety of instruction modes. Courses may be offered in the classroom or lab, entirely online, or in a hybrid mode which combines classroom sessions with virtual learning activities. Upon registration, each full-time student is provided an Algonquin email account which is used to communicate important information about program or course events.
Code:
ENL7777
Course Name:
Communications I
Course Description:
Communication remains an essential skill sought by employers, regardless of discipline or field of study. Using a practical, vocation-orient... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PFP6002
Course Name:
Community Service
Course Description:
Volunteerism not only benefits a community; it can broaden the worldview of the volunteer. Students who give their time and energy to an app... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PFP7055
Course Name:
Police Powers, Ethics and Professionalism
Course Description:
Law enforcement require clarity around scope of powers and professional expectations. Students examine legislated authorities and best pract... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PFP7063
Course Name:
Fitness and Nutrition
Course Description:
Society has come to recognize that personal and collective wellness is essential to enhance the quality of life. Students examine the concep... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
PFP7110
Course Name:
Canadian Criminal Justice System
Course Description:
The basis of the criminal justice system in Canada operates on processes and principles originating from common and civil law. Focus is on t... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PFP7131
Course Name:
Introduction to Sociology
Course Description:
Sociology is a science of society and culture that explores our interdependencies and differences. By providing a critical lens regarding to... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PFP7151
Course Name:
Political Science and Public Administration
Course Description:
Decisions made at all levels of government impact the professional and personal lives of Canadians. Students cultivate an understanding of t... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PFP7222
Course Name:
Interpersonal and Group Dynamics
Course Description:
Successful navigation of interpersonal and group dynamics is fundamental to working in law enforcement. Students examine and practise group ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PFP7398
Course Name:
Career Preparation
Course Description:
Preparation is critical towards the development of competitive candidacy in law enforcement. Students work to enhance their skills, knowledg... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PFP9170
Course Name:
Introduction to Research
Course Description:
Informative decisions and action are strongly influenced by research. Students examine the different types of social science research, the t... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
ENL7678
Course Name:
Communications II
Course Description:
By the very nature of their work, law enforcement officers communicate constantly with co-workers and a diverse public. Students study and p... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PFP7031
Course Name:
Mental Health in Law Enforcement
Course Description:
Having a basic understanding of mental illness and the symptoms of different mental illnesses prepares law enforcement personnel to better d... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PFP7212
Course Name:
Criminology
Course Description:
Criminology seeks to understand the underpinnings of criminal and deviant behaviour. Students examine this behaviour through sociological, b... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PFP7296
Course Name:
Fitness and Lifestyle Management
Course Description:
Ensuring one's personal fitness and a healthy lifestyle is an important aspect of maintaining a successful career in law enforcement. Studen... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
PFP7310
Course Name:
Criminal and Civil Law
Course Description:
Law enforcement officers are required to possess a basic understanding of most of the criminal laws they are charged with enforcing. Student... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PFP7385
Course Name:
Fitness for Law Enforcement
Course Description:
Extensive preparation is necessary when applying for a career in policing or other law enforcement fields. Students adhere to their personal... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
PFP7410
Course Name:
Provincial Offences
Course Description:
Policing requires strong foundational knowledge of provincial legislations and acts in relation to offences. Students examine scenarios and ... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
PFP7440
Course Name:
Investigation and Evidence
Course Description:
Accuracy and procedure are key to ensuring admissibility of details and evidence. Students examine the requirements of a continuing investig... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PSY7604
Course Name:
Introduction to Psychology
Course Description:
A key component to police-community relations is possessing foundational knowledge around psychology. Students apply basic psychological con... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED0444
Course Name:
General Education Elective
Course Description:
Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following five theme requirements: Arts in S... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PFP6001
Course Name:
Victimology
Course Description:
An increased awareness of the ripple effect of crimes has given rise to victimology as a significant field of study. Student investigate vi... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PFP7053
Course Name:
Youth in Conflict with the Law
Course Description:
Youth in legal conflict are often given special consideration when compared to adults. From historical, philosophical and contemporary persp... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
PFP7155
Course Name:
Police Powers and the Law
Course Description:
Parameters relating to the powers of law enforcement is essential knowledge in effectively performing one's duty. Students expand personal k... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
PFP7271
Course Name:
Diversity in Canada
Course Description:
Diversity is a hallmark of Canada's progressive society. Students consider the historical, societal and political response to this diversity... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PFP7321
Course Name:
Criminal Code and Federal Statutes
Course Description:
The Criminal Code, a federal statute enacted by Parliament, provides the federal government exclusive jurisdiction to legislate criminal off... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PFP7340
Course Name:
Interviewing and Investigations
Course Description:
A key component of policing is possessing the skills and knowledge to effectively conduct interviews and investigations. Students develop th... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PFP7371
Course Name:
Traffic Management
Course Description:
Possessing the knowledge, skills and ability to locate and apply sections of the Provincial Traffic Law and Criminal Code of Canada is a key... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PFP7392
Course Name:
Fitness and Self-Defence
Course Description:
Students examine best practices within the policing profession in relation to restraint, protection and defensive techniques in consideratio... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PFP7450
Course Name:
Conflict Management
Course Description:
Law enforcement personnel require the ability to intervene in conflict and crisis situations with competence and confidence. Various conflic... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PFP7461
Course Name:
Community Policing: Partnership and Engagement
Course Description:
Fostering strong relationships between law enforcement and communities lays the foundations towards a healthy, productive society. Students ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Careers & Pathways
Careers
The Police Foundations program can assist you in developing and enhancing your knowledge, skills and abilities for a career in policing and law enforcement. The Police Foundations program provides an excellent base for careers with policing services, Canada Border Services Agency, military police, Ministry of Transportation, private/corporate security and various correctional institutions.
It is highly recommended that applicants check the essential hiring requirements of the law enforcement agency to which they have an interest in applying. In addition, a vision and hearing test is strongly recommended. This information is provided to assist applicants in understanding the requirements of the agency.
In order to be considered for employment by a law enforcement agency, an individual who has been criminally convicted under a federal statue (other than the Youth Criminal Justice Act or the Young Offenders Act) must obtain a pardon prior to submitting an application. Agencies may charge a fee for this service.
Application criteria for police services in Ontario are outlined in the Ontario Police Services Act. An applicant must:
- be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada
- be at least 18 years of age
- be physically and mentally able to perform the duties of the position
- be of good moral character and habits
- be a graduate of at least four years of secondary school education or its equivalent
- possess vision and hearing within acceptable standards
- possess a current Standard First Aid certificate and a current CPR certificate at time of hire
- have no criminal conviction for which a pardon has not been granted
- pass a medical examination
Pathways
Please note: There may be more pathways available for this program than are listed here. Please use our Pathways search tool to see every option.
Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Complete all tasks in compliance with pertinent legislation, as well as policing standards, regulations and guidelines.
- Analyze all relevant information and make effective and legally defensible decisions in accordance with ethical and professional standards.
- Be accountable for one`s actions when carrying out all tasks.
- Develop and implement ongoing effective strategies for personal and professional development.
- Ensure the respect of human rights and freedoms in all interactions.
- Work co-operatively in multidisciplinary teams to achieve mutual goals.
- Collaborate in the development and implementation of community policing strategies.
- Monitor, evaluate and document behaviours, situations and events accurately and discreetly in compliance with legal, professional, ethical and organizational requirements.
- Mitigate risks and maintain order by applying effective strategies in crisis, conflict and emergency situations.
- Take positive actions to help crime victims.
- Conduct investigations by collecting, documenting, preserving and presenting admissible evidence.
- Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.
Tuition & Fees
Get an idea of how much each semester will cost with our Tuition and Fee Estimator.
2023/2024 Academic Year
Tuition and related ancillary fees for this program can be viewed by using the Tuition and Fees Estimator tool at www.algonquincollege.com/fee-estimator.
Further information on fees can be found by visiting the Registrar`s Office website at www.algonquincollege.com/ro.
Fees are subject to change.
Additional program related expenses include:
- Mandatory fitness and classroom attire costs approximately $300.
- Additional fees for textbooks also apply.
Admissions Requirements
All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.
College Eligibility
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent. Applicants with an OSSD showing senior English and/or Mathematics courses at the Basic Level, or with Workplace or Open courses, will be tested to determine their eligibility for admission; OR
- Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate; OR
- General Educational Development (GED) certificate; OR
- Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program). Eligibility may be determined by academic achievement testing for which a fee of $50 (subject to change) will be charged.
Program Eligibility
- English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent).
- Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject-specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency. Domestic applicants with international transcripts must be evaluated through the International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) or World Education Services (WES).
- IELTS-International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each band; OR TOEFL-Internet-based (iBT) Overall 80, with a minimum of 20 in each component: Reading 20; Listening 20; Speaking 20; Writing 20; OR Duolingo English Test (DET) Overall 110, minimum of 110 in Literacy and no score below 95.
Should the number of qualified applicants exceed the number of available places, applicants will be selected on the basis of their proficiency in English.
Application Information
POLICE FOUNDATIONS
Program Code 0444X04FPM
Applications to full-time day programs must be submitted with official transcripts showing completion of the academic admission requirements through:
ontariocolleges.ca
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario N1G 5J3
1-888-892-2228
Students currently enrolled in an Ontario secondary school should notify their Guidance Office prior to their online application at www.ontariocolleges.ca.
Applications for Fall Term and Winter Term received by February 1 will be given equal consideration. Applications received after February 1 will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis as long as places are available.
International applicants please visit this link for application process information: https://algonquincollege.force.com/myACint/.
For further information on the admissions process, contact:
Registrar`s Office
Algonquin College in the Ottawa Valley
1 College Way
Pembroke, ON K8A 0C8
Local: 613-735-4700
Toll-free 1-800-565-4723
TTY: 1-866-620-3845
Fax: 613-735-4739
https://algonquincollege.com/pembroke
Additional Information
Program Resources
This full-time day program is also offered at the Woodroffe Campus. While the learning outcomes at the Pembroke and Woodroffe Campuses are the same, the curriculum order and subject delivery are reflective of local circumstances, which affect program delivery.
Police Foundations program courses are also offered on a full-time and part-time basis through AC Online for students interested in pursuing studies online.
The Pembroke Campus provides students with a unique exposure to municipal, provincial and federal policing operations. With small class sizes and experienced police officers as part of a diverse faculty, the Pembroke Campus offers an excellent learning experience for students preparing for careers in policing and public safety.
A valid and clear Certificate of Police Records is required by all students who intend to pursue volunteer opportunities during their program. We strongly encourage students to apply for a police record check for Service with the Vulnerable Sector prior to commencing their studies.
Students seeking exemptions for required courses are strongly advised to submit relevant documentation well in advance of the commencement of the academic year.
For more information regarding this program, visit our website at: www.algonquincollege.com/pembroke/programs/police-foundations.